Chapter 82

As Vivian left, Gwendolyn remained by the window, picking up the phone with practiced deference. "Everything went exactly as planned. She seemed quite shaken. Didn't even think to verify with Mr. Blackwood before rushing off to Emerald Pizzeria, according to her phone conversation."

The Opal Galleria buzzed with midday energy as Audrey and Vivian emerged from a confectionery shop, arms linked and laughter bright.

Audrey's attention suddenly caught on a luxury boutique's display window. Her fingers tightened around Vivian's arm. "That dress! It's made for you!" She pointed at an ivory creation with intricate lace detailing and daring side cutouts. "Let me get it for you - consider it a belated birthday gift!"

Vivian shook her head, fingers brushing the price tag. "It's too much, really. Besides, where would I even wear something like this?"

"Nonsense!" Audrey tugged her toward the entrance. "Trying costs nothing. And look -" She gestured to her own designer bag. "We've got the credentials to warrant their attention."

The sales associate perked up immediately at Audrey's confident approach. "The VIP fitting room is occupied, but you may use this one here," she offered, already unhooking the gown.

Audrey settled onto a velvet chaise lounge, idly scanning the nearly empty store. Her gaze snagged on a man's silhouette partially visible behind a decorative screen. Even in profile, his aristocratic bearing was unmistakable - the kind of man who belonged in tailored suits and boardrooms rather than waiting outside dressing rooms.

She smirked to herself. Probably some wealthy husband enduring his wife's shopping spree.

The fitting room curtain swished open.

Audrey's breath caught. The dress transformed Vivian - the delicate fabric clinging to her curves, the strategic cutouts drawing attention to her slender waist. "My God, Viv, you look-"

"Adrian, what do you think of this one?" A honeyed voice interrupted as Serena Whitmore emerged from the adjacent fitting room wearing the identical gown.

The screen shifted. Adrian Blackwood rose to his full height, his gaze locking onto Vivian.

Audrey nearly choked on her tongue. So much for the devoted husband theory. Those Mirage Lounge cocktails must have addled her brain to mistake Adrian Blackwood for anyone's doting spouse.

The air thickened as Adrian's dark eyes traveled the length of Vivian's body. The dress hugged every curve, the high slit revealing toned legs that seemed to go on forever.

Vivian stood frozen, the color draining from her face as recognition dawned. The boutique's lights caught the subtle tremble of her fingers where they gripped the delicate fabric.

Serena's painted lips curved into something sharp. "Well, isn't this... interesting."